Being joyful at any age

As we approach the fifth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV has reminded us that in this Jubilee Year “hope is a constant source of joy, whatever our age.”

Elderly biblical figures, such as Abraham and Sarah, Moses, and Zechariah, were mentioned as examples by Pope Leo XIV. “God repeatedly demonstrates his providential care by turning to people in their later years,” he said. “God thus teaches us that, in his eyes, old age is a time of blessing and grace, and that the elderly are, for him, the first witnesses of hope.”

The theme chosen by Pope Francis for this year’s celebration is Blessed are those who have not lost hope (cf. Sir 14:2).

Pope Leo XIV also said the increasing number of elderly people “is a sign of the times that we are called to discern, in order to properly interpret this moment of history.”

The pope added, “Embracing the elderly helps us to understand that life is more than just the present moment, and should not be wasted in superficial encounters and fleeting relationships. Instead, life is constantly pointing us toward the future.

“Looking at the elderly in the spirit of this Jubilee, we are called to help them experience liberation, especially from loneliness and abandonment.

“Our societies, everywhere in the world, are growing all too accustomed to letting this significant and enriching part of their life be marginalised and forgotten,” said Pope Leo XIV, who recalled that Pope Francis wanted everyone, and especially the young, to reach out to those who are alone.

The Sunday closest to the Feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, Grandparents of Jesus, on July 26 is chosen for the celebration.

Read his message here.

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